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Updated: Mar 13, 2026

A Mouse Ear Model for Allergic Contact Dermatitis Evaluation
Published on: March 24, 2023
Alkyl Glucosides in Contact Dermatitis.
Camille Loranger1, Maisa Alfalah, Marie-Christine Ferrier Le Bouedec
1From the *Division of Dermatology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, †Division of Dermatology, National Guard Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; and ‡Service de Dermatologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Estaing, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
Alkyl glucosides, used in cosmetics, are increasingly linked to allergic contact dermatitis. Most reactions are to lauryl and decyl glucosides, emergent allergens found in various personal care products.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
- Allergology
Background:
- Alkyl glucosides are mild surfactants derived from natural, renewable sources, gaining popularity in the cosmetic industry.
- These surfactants are incorporated into both rinse-off (shampoos, cleansers) and leave-on (moisturizers, sunscreens) cosmetic products.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the chemistry and sources of exposure to alkyl glucosides.
- To summarize reported cutaneous adverse effects of alkyl glucosides, focusing on allergic contact dermatitis.
- To highlight alkyl glucosides as emergent allergens in cosmetic products.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published cases of allergic contact dermatitis.
- Analysis of data from patch testing centers.
- Examination of the chemical properties and applications of alkyl glucosides.
Main Results:
- Numerous cases of allergic contact dermatitis to lauryl and decyl glucosides have been reported over the past 15 years.
- Decyl glucoside acts as a hidden allergen in sunscreen formulations like Tinosorb M, causing most reported reactions.
- Alkyl glucosides are identified as emergent allergens in cosmetic products.
Conclusions:
- Alkyl glucosides, despite their "green" profile, pose a risk of allergic contact dermatitis.
- Decyl glucoside is a significant cause of allergic contact dermatitis, often overlooked in product formulations.
- Increased awareness and patch testing are crucial for managing alkyl glucoside-induced allergies.
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